Bathroom Renovations: 7 Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

Whether you’re planning to sell your home soon or just
trying to make your home more comfortable, a bathroom renovation is one of your
best bets. Perhaps you’re ready to make a significant investment to create a
spa-like oasis with a separate shower and a deep tub—or if your budget is
smaller, you may want to explore what you can accomplish with new fixtures and
a fresh coat of paint. Whichever direction your renovation takes you, we at Modernize
want to provide you with the best possible guidance for your bathroom
renovation. Here’s how to make sure that your renovation goes smoothly,
improves your home’s aesthetic appeal, and increases your home’s overall value.

1. Start with a realistic budget

Once you start taking tiles off the walls or floors, your bathroom renovation can get expensive. Before you start your project, make sure that you know how much money you have to spend so that you can prioritize the projects that are most important to you. For instance, what are the top three things that you want out of your renovation? Items like a new tub and premium tiles (slate, marble, porcelain) can quickly eat up the bulk of your budget. If those items are non-negotiable for you, you may need to look into consignment shops for home-builders to find discounts on major purchases. A good place to start is Habitat for Humanity’s Restore. Present in a number of communities throughout the U.S., the Restore sells new and gently used furniture, appliances, home accessories, building materials, and more at a fraction of the retail price. Proceeds are used to build homes for economically disadvantaged families around the world.

One of the most highly desirable bathroom features that won’t break the bank, is extra storage. Think about adding a deeper medicine cabinet, shelf storage above the toilet, or adjustable shelves in a linen closet. Additionally, if you have a pedestal sink, adding a contemporary-style vanity can provide a tremendous amount of storage and have a big impact on the style of the room.

2. Leave a complex job
to the experts

As much as you may love a good DIY
project, a bathroom renovation is no easy feat, and you may end up paying extra
to correct a botched job. A bathroom renovation is much more than painting and
tiling—you’ll run into issues with plumbing and electrical, too. For example,
if your hair dryer often blows a fuse, you probably have outdated 15-amp wiring
in your bathroom. To improve the electrical capacity in your bathroom, don’t
just switch out the outlets. Instead, hire a contractor to upgrade the wiring
with a 20-amp circuit and plenty of outlets for all the appliances you use—from
electric razors and toothbrushes to hair-straightening irons. A good contractor
can also make sure that new sinks and showers are installed properly to avoid
mildew and rot issues down the line.

3. Don’t leave your
project half-finished

My mother wanted a Jacuzzi tub for years. When she finally
got it, my dad decided to save money by installing it himself. Believe me when
I tell you that although my mom enjoyed the tub, the giant hole in the wall and
orange extension cord running out of it for 5 years made the tub considerably
less relaxing. That said...

4. Don’t hire based on
the lowest bid

One of the best ways to select a contractor is from the
personal recommendations of people you know and trust—and you’ll want to make
sure that they’re licensed and insured. It’s also important that you hire a
contractor who charges a fair price that doesn’t fluctuate greatly throughout
the process; who works quickly but thoroughly; who you feel safe having in your
home; and who leaves you with a finished bathroom that you love and requires no
additional work on your part. Remember, peace of mind is priceless.

5. Keep fixtures classic
and neutral, and be risky with paint or accessories

Rusty or dated fixtures (think brass) can really put a
damper on your space—this includes your lighting, too. Update all of your
fixtures so that they match, are modern, and would work seamlessly with most
home decor styles. While you’re at it, you definitely want to replace your
toilet seat to give your space a fresher look, and if you are preparing to sell
your home and your budget permits, replace the toilet. If you are staging your
home for sale, paint the walls a light, neutral color. It will make the space
look larger and newer.

6. Don’t make changes that contrast with the style of your home

While you may like the rustic look of a log cabin, or simplicity of an Asian themed bathroom, ask yourself if your new bathroom style will mesh well with the style of the rest of your home. A room that stands out so starkly can be a big turn off to prospective homebuyers. While you’re thinking you’ve created a cozy lodge-like experience, they see your nice modern house with the strange cabin bathroom.

7. Finally, don’t ignore
return on investments (ROI)

While the cost of renovating your bathroom may seem
overwhelming, it’s well worth the investment. According to the 2016 Cost vs.
Value report, you can expect a 70.4% return on your investment (ROI) when you renovate
your bathroom. Prospective homebuyers are willing to pay a premium for features
such an ensuite master bathroom and double sinks. Additionally, while not an
easy or inexpensive project, if you have the resources, consider replacing a
fiberglass shower insert with stone or tile. The clean, new look will be very
appealing to prospective buyers.

Your bathroom is one of the most frequently used rooms of
the home, so you can’t afford to make mistakes that you’ll regret later. With
these tips, you’re on your way to a space that’s tailored to your unique style,
comfort, and budget.

About the Writer

Danielle
Hegedus is an Atlanta based writer. She is a regular contributor to Modernize, as well as a variety of lifestyle and home design websites. Danielle recently
finished her first cookbook, in collaboration with Chef, Kamal Grant for
Atlanta's beloved, Sublime Doughnuts.

Where can I buy items for my bathroom renovation?

Bathroom vanities, toilets, light fixtures, and other bathroom accessories can be purchased online at doitbest.com and at your local Do it Best store. Shop online or stop in today, and start renovating!